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Switzerland is not a member of the European Union (EU), but it has established close ties with the EU through a series of bilateral agreements. The country is part of the EU’s single market, allowing for barrier-free trade in goods and services. Key Facts:

Switzerland is the EU’s fourth-largest trading partner, accounting for 5.2% of the EU’s imports, mainly chemicals, medicinal products, machinery, instruments, and timepieces. Over 1.5 million EU citizens live and work in Switzerland, and 450,000 Swiss nationals are based in EU countries. Switzerland has a unique relationship with the EU, with more than 120 bilateral agreements in areas such as trade, transport, security, and education. The country is not part of the Schengen Area, but Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway, which are not EU members, are part of the Schengen Area along with Switzerland. Switzerland has been associated with several EU policies, including those on research, education, and environmental protection.

Current Developments:

Switzerland is currently negotiating its position for the next stage of talks to regulate its relationship with the EU, aiming to decide by the end of 2023. The EU is analyzing the impact of Switzerland’s unilateral termination of institutional framework agreement talks in May 2021 on their bilateral relationship.

Cooperation and Negotiation:

The Swiss government prioritizes barrier-free participation in the EU single market, while the EU emphasizes the integrity of its single market, requiring the same rules to apply to all participants. Despite challenges, Switzerland is committed to solving these problems with a new approach, ensuring well-regulated relations and prosperity for both sides.